Make your Activities sound 10x Better to Admissions

The activities list is often overlooked in college applications, yet it can make or break your chances of admission. Think of it as your personal highlight reel—a snapshot of your high school journey that showcases your passions, dedication, and leadership. But how do you turn a simple list into a powerful narrative that captures the attention of admissions officers?

Don’t treat the activities list like a mere checklist of your high school roles and responsibilities. Transform it from a mundane record into a compelling story of who you are and what you’ve accomplished to stand out in your application.

What Admissions Officers Look For

Admissions officers seek evidence of sustained involvement in areas that matter to you. Leadership, initiative, and impact are key. They want to see that you’re proactive, responsible, and capable of making a difference. Additionally, they’re interested in how your activities align with your academic interests and career goals, indicating a clear sense of purpose and direction.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Overloading the List: Focus on activities where you’ve made the most impact. Highlight those where you were most active or held leadership positions.
• Vague Descriptions: Avoid phrases like "participated in" or "helped with." Instead, use strong action verbs and be specific about your role and achievements.
• Lack of Focus: Highlight activities that showcase your strengths and align with your intended field of study or the values of the colleges to which you’re applying.

Crafting Descriptions That Stand Out

• Use Action Verbs: Opt for verbs like "coached" instead of "taught" or "systematized" instead of "organized" to add clarity and detail. These shifts can transform a generic description into a vivid account of your achievements. Access a list of verbs to use from the college essay guy here.
• Quantify Achievements: Numbers add credibility to your achievements. For example, instead of "raising money for charity," say "organized a fundraising event that raised $5,000 for local shelters."
• Show Impact: Highlight the outcomes of your efforts—did you solve a problem, improve efficiency, or bring about positive change?

Tailoring the List to Your Dream School

Every college has its own values and priorities. Tailoring your activities list to align with those can give you a competitive edge. Adjust your descriptions and prioritize activities according to the values of each school.

Balancing Breadth and Depth

Consider organizing your activities into two categories: primary (deep involvement and significant achievements) and secondary (breadth and diverse interests). For example, list your role as debate team captain as a primary activity with detailed descriptions, and mention other club participations as secondary activities.